For our free coronavirus pandemic coverage, learn more here.

The Victorian government has announced a slight easing of some coronavirus restrictions in Melbourne as the state hits a first-dose vaccination target of 70 per cent.

From Saturday, fully vaccinated Melburnians can meet up outdoors with one other household in groups of up to five and unvaccinated people can socialise with one other person.

The five-kilometre movement restriction will expand to 10 kilometres, outdoor gyms and skate parks will reopen and Victorians will be able to exercise for four hours per day, up from two.

Premier Daniel Andrews will announce a road map for further easing of the rules on Sunday.

The Age asked some experts what further changes should be made in Victoria in the short term and when state and international borders could safely reopen.

Catherine Bennett, chair in epidemiology, Deakin University

Deakin University chair of epidemiology Catherine Bennett.Credit:Jason South

James Trauer, epidemiological modelling unit head, Monash University

Associate professor James Trauer, head of Epidemiology at Monash University.

George Milne, mathematician, University of Western Australia

University of Western Australia Professor George Milne

Nancy Baxter, clinical epidemiologist, Melbourne University.

Professor Nancy Baxter had just moved to Australia from Canada to head Melbourne University’s School of Population and Global Health when COVID-19 hit.

Stay across the most crucial developments related to the pandemic with the Coronavirus Update. Sign up to receive the weekly newsletter.

Most Viewed in National

From our partners

Source: Read Full Article